The Workers Party of Britain is proud of our armed forces and its traditions. We recognise their willingness to give their lives for our country. This is not the era of the First World War and we are not the Second International whose opposition to that war folded like a cheap tent. We will oppose and disrupt any conscription of the working class for war with Russia or China. We shall not allow the working classes to be sent off for senseless slaughter, let the politicians and generals do their own fighting.
Our service personnel will be held in high regard for their service both in government and society. This will be reflected in the pay, pension, and benefits they will receive. All military personnel who are employed by the UK government will receive the same pay, pension, and benefits for their rank regardless of their country of origin or the regiment or service they are in. These same personnel will have the right to reside in the UK if it is their wish to do so.
The way that our armed forces procure weapons, equipment and uniform will undergo a comprehensive review, putting an end to the misuse of public money. Legislation will be passed to allow procurement from UK manufacturers as a priority. The process will be made open and transparent and allow for our armed forces to get the best equipment whilst delivering the best value for money to the British people.
We will make sure that our service personnel have the most up-to-date equipment and uniform. Our troops should not have to buy their own clothing and equipment to ensure their own comfort and safety.
Our military should be reflective of the general population and be primarily made up of citizens who are attracted by the prospect of serving their country and not because they feel that it is their only option for a better life.
Our armed forces currently enjoy full free medical treatment whilst in service but we recognise our country’s failures when comes to caring for those who have been discharged from the service. Veterans should not have to rely on charities to provide them support following medical discharge.
Service personnel who have been injured through fighting for our country should and will receive free care for the time that it is needed. Injured service personnel will have priority access to NHS services when discharged. Our service personnel will not be forgotten. If a new fully-funded Veterans Administration is required, we will create it.
Julie Lowe 